English as an Additional Language (EAL) Programme and Curriculum
English as an Additional Language (EAL) Programme
The OWIS English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme is designed to provide students with the support they need to master the English language.
As international-mindedness is a key driver for OWIS and a large portion of its student body hails from expatriate families, there are often a number of EAL students enrolled at any given time. At OWIS, we believe that language learning and fluency requires support, both within the classroom and outside of it.
We welcome students who are new to English in Early Childhood and offer our EAL programme for students in Grades 1 to 6 in our international Primary School and up to Grade 8 for our Secondary School students. At OWIS, we work directly with students whose native language is something other than English through our EAL programme. We offer EAL support in all our school campuses, please contact us to find out if our EAL curriculum is a right fit for your child.
The OWIS approach to EAL
The EAL programme plays a pivotal role at our international school. At OWIS, we are proud of our multicultural environment, and we love the fact that we have students who hail from countries around the world. However, this diverse student body also requires us to rise to the challenges that come along with that.
Many of our students have been speaking a different language in their homes and in the educational setting since they were born. This requires us to develop an innovative EAL curriculum that works to actively improve the English skills of our students.
Our EAL Curriculum includes:
Evaluation by an EAL Specialist
An evaluation of each individual student's current English language skills. The EAL specialist will determine where they are in terms of their fluency and understanding and will then create goals that are personalised for that individual student.
Focus on Contextualised Language Use
Intentional teaching methods that focus on contextualised language use. Students are provided with immersive and engaging lessons that allow them to use their English skills both orally and in writing. We emphasise our inquiry-based approach to our EAL programme.
Purposeful inquiry-based approach into English-based texts
Purposeful inquiry into English-based texts and lessons. This approach leads to a conceptual understanding of the English language.
Get in touch with us to see how we can support your child’s all-round development
Discover why our EAL curriculum helps to prepare your child for their education journey in Singapore. Contact us to find out more about our EAL offerings for each campus and for each grade level (Primary School and Secondary School).
Multicultural Learning at OWIS
We believe that the beauty of our school lies in our differences.
At OWIS, we encourage students to continue to learn about and explore their own culture as well as the culture of their peers.
We strive to provide a curriculum that encompasses a wide variety of cultures and backgrounds. We want our students to share their own traditions and values, as this allows classmates to better understand each other as well as the world around them. Multicultural learning at OWIS extends beyond the classroom. Our students often go out into the community and participate in events that allow them to meet their neighbours and learn more about the local culture. OWIS strives to create an invigorating learning environment that challenges all students to rise to the occasion and do their best while learning to become global citizens. Our EAL programme plays a critical role in allowing our students to be successful, and we are proud of the support that our EAL students receive.
What Parents Have To Say About Our EAL Programme
What does it feel like to be a part of the OWIS family? Hear genuine stories and feedback from our OWIS EAL programme parents.
Chanya was six years when she enrolled in Grade 1 during the academic year in October 2016. She was previously in a Thai school and we realised that her weak grasp of English could obstruct her daily school life. As a new student, both to the school and in the language, I was so worried about her. But after starting at OWIS, my daughter had settled down very well after the first few weeks. The English as an Additional Language program (EAL) offering one-on-one support has helped her to catch up quickly with her social life and normal classes. We have been delighted being a part of the One World community.
On-Usah C.
Admission To The EAL Programme
Prospective EAL programme students at OWIS are welcomed into a supportive and inclusive environment where every learner, regardless of language background, is given the opportunity to thrive. Our admission process is designed to identify and meet the language learning needs of each student, ensuring they can successfully transition into our international community and become confident, global citizens.
Parents interested in enrolling their child in our EAL programme must also complete all other steps of the application process accurately and in a timely manner. Find out more about OWIS’ entry requirements or contact our team for further information.
Frequently Asked Questions About EAL Curriculum
Who is eligible for the EAL programme?
The EAL programme at OWIS differs from campus to campus. Our EAL programmes are designed for primary school students from Grades 1 to 6 and Secondary School students up to Grade 8 who are new to English. Eligibility is determined based on an initial assessment of the student’s English language proficiency to ensure they receive the appropriate level of support.
How is a student's need for the EAL programme determined?
Are EAL classes integrated with the main curriculum?
Can students join the EAL programme at any time?
Students can join the EAL programme at any point during the academic year, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. Our flexible intake policy allows for ongoing assessments to accommodate the needs of newly enrolled students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
How does OWIS measure progress in the EAL programme?
Progress in the EAL programme is measured through holistic and continuous assessment, which includes observations, project work, written assignments, and formal testing. This approach allows EAL specialists to monitor students’ language development closely and adjust instruction to meet evolving needs. Feedback is regularly provided to both students and parents to ensure transparent communication about the student’s language acquisition journey.
Visit our school and see how we can support your child’s all-round development
Discover why our rigorous and holistic EAL curriculum successfully prepares your child for their future, and see how we raise internationally minded and confident lifelong learners.
